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Dodgers sign Aaron Miles to minor-league contract with non-roster invite to spring

February 7, 2011 | 3:08
pm

I’m going with the positive theory -- because you know how I am -- that collect enough of these guys, one of them is bound to come through.

Aren’t they?

Thinking it won’t be light-hitting Aaron Miles, but it’s a very small roll of the dice. Unless you’re of that negative vein, and are concerned this is one more washed-up vet holding back another potential prospect (Ivan De Jesus Jr.?).

Miles is a second baseman, who dabbled a tad at short and third last season.

He was once a looked upon as a player with promise, albeit with almost a complete lack of power. He finished fourth in the National League Rookie of the Year voting after hitting .293 for the Rockies in 2004.

He won a World Series with the Cardinals in 2006. He signed a two-year deal with the Cubs prior to the 2009 season but couldn’t beat out second baseman Mike Fontenot or -- are your ready? -- shortstop Ryan Theriot.

He ended up with the Reds a year ago, but was cut at the end of spring training. Miles re-signed with the Cardinals, went back to the minors and was a mid-summer call-up.

Last season he hit .281 in 139 at-bats, with zero power. He had a .311 on-base percentage and a feeble .317 slugging percentage. Also, he’s 34.

Returning to our positive-thinking routine, he’s a switch-hitter. Otherwise, he and Juan Castro could become fast friends.

Young infielders Dee Gordon and De Jesus are lurking, waiting for their opportunity. That doesn’t figure to come this season, but hopefully Miles won’t impede whatever opportunity they do have this spring. Not to be negative.